Located just 40 minutes from Jimbour, the Bunya Mountains distinctively rise on an isolated section of the Great Dividing Range and offer up spectacular views, wilderness and wildlife. These mountains form an island around grassy plains and farm land, and rainforest covers most of the mountain area. It boasts a variety of activities that are perfect for family fun days, wildlife enthusiasts, or quality time with your partner.
Wilfred Russell MLA, who together with his wife Millicent Russel purchased Jimbour House and the surrounding property in 1923, acquired 1200 acres of land in the Bunya Mountains, which he donated in 1927 to the public and which remains a dedicated public reserve.
In the Bunya Mountains
1. Go for a hike in the Bunya Mountains National Park
Bunya Mountains National Park boasts the largest stand of ancient bunya pines in the world and is the second oldest national park in Queensland. Exploring this nature filled gem will bring you to discover mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, grasslands, panoramic views, wildlife and stories of times long ago.
This national park offers park facilities such as barbecues, picnic tables, camping facilities, walking tracks and lookout points. Plus make sure to visit the Bunya Mountains QPWS Visitor Centre to learn about the nature, culture and history of the Bunya Mountains.
2. Browse the Bunya Mountains Markets
The Bunya Mountains Markets hosts over 30 stalls featuring an array of different handmade goodies that you’ll want to take home with you. While you’re there, indulge in some of the local delicacies, we recommend anything with the Bunya Nut to truly feel like you’re part of the community.
These markets are held on the last Sunday of every month and are open from 9am-2pm.
3. Enjoy some stargazing
The added bonus of being a few hours away from the big smoke means you’ll get a pristine view of the star-covered sky on a clear night. The Bunya Mountains is even known as one of the darkest skies in the world due to its limited sky pollution.
Grab a picnic rug, pack some snacks and don’t forget to look up as it’s sure to be a sight to remember. The stars are magical to the naked eye, or bring along a telescope for an even more impressive view.
4. Go wildlife watching
The Bunya Mountains National Park is a hotspot for viewing wildlife. You’ll want to keep an eye out for king parrots, crimson rosellas, red-necked wallabies, satin bowerbirds, green catbirds and huge tadpoles. If you head out at night you’re also likely to spot frogmouths, owls, possums, bats and frogs.
Don’t forget to pack your binoculars and of course a camera.
5. Feed wild birds
On the topics of wildlife, you’re sure to want to try out this iconic Bunya Mountains activity. Take the time to interact with and get up close and personal with the local Australian king parrots and crimson rosellas. This tradition started in the 1970’s when Joe Walker offered feed to the parrots to keep them out of his veggie patch and the activity continues strong today.
The Store runs daily sessions and a tray of bird seed will set you back only $5.
6. Spot some fireflies
From October through November you’ll experience the wonder of fireflies showing off by flashing their lights against the Bunya Mountains backdrop. These beauties will be visible for about an hour from dusk until dark and you won’t want to miss it.
7. Marvel the Bluebelles Art Gallery
Located in the Community Centre, this spacious art gallery features original artworks by members and friends of the Bell Art Group, the local group that manages and supports this gallery. The artwork is updated regularly, so there is always something new to see.
8. Take a horse and cart ride
The Bunya Mountains Horse Drawn Tours have operated in the Bunya Mountains for over 30 years. It’s located in the heart of the mountains, and on your ride you’ll learn about the local flora and fauna and the history of the Bunya Mountains from a local tour guide. The tours range from 10 minutes to two hours, so there is something to suit everyone’s needs.
9. Visit Poppies on the Hill Cafe
Poppies on the Hill Cafe is a Bunya Mountains institution that will fill your bellies and your soul. Enjoy your food as you look out over the rainforest and enjoy the company of the native wildlife. Poppies uses fresh, local ingredients that will have you coming back for seconds.
10. Search for a Bunya Nut
The rainforest that blankets the Bunya Mountains unsurprisingly includes towering bunya pines. From December through to March these bunya pines drop cones containing edible seeds known as bunya nuts. Watch your head – these cones are quite large, contain between 50 to 100 nuts and could weigh up to 10kg.
11. Visit a winery
The Darling Downs region and in particular South Burnett, is Queensland’s largest wine region and home to the State’s biggest vineyards. Take your pick from the list of wineries here or choose a winery tour and winery hop at your taste buds’ leisure.
Surrounding the Bunya Mountains
1. Go for a swim at the Coomba Falls
A hop, skip and a jump away from the Bunya Mountains is Coomba Falls at Maidenwell. This fall has a deep natural swimming hole and picturesque views of granite cliffs.
The water can be icy so we recommend choosing to visit on a hot day, giving you the perfect spot to relax, cool down and have a picnic. You’re also likely to spot some wildlife while you’re there.
2. Discover Jimbour
Just a short drive from the Bunya Mountains you’ll find Jimbour, which is both a tiny village and the location of one of the nation’s most gracious historical homes. The Jimbour residence was built in 1876, and this heritage-listed home with its spectacular gardens has become a Queensland landmark and perfectly blends history, grandeur and graciousness.
Visitors are welcomed daily to tour the grounds and gardens and your entry will include access to the Living History Walk, which will give you an experience of historical plaques, sights and sounds that bring a rich and colourful heritage to life.
3. Visit the Dalby Pioneer Park Museum
Also an hours drive from the Bunya Mountains is The Dalby Pioneer Park Museum, which will provide you with a greater understanding of the prosperous agricultural history of the area.This museum displays one of the largest collections of working pioneer tractors and agricultural machinery in Queensland, alongside authentic colonial buildings and heritage artefacts.
The many buildings at this museum are of original colonial construction or rebuilt from original materials and the museum recently acquired an Eclipse Windmill, which is now up and running.
4. Wander through the Dalby Heritage Trail
While you’re in Dalby, head out on foot for an enjoyable walk around some of Dalby’s historical buildings, homes and churches. There is a range of interesting places to see on your way including the Old Town Council Chambers, the Marble Street Art Centre and the Old Police Station.
Start at St Joseph’s Catholic Church and your final stop will be the Dalby CBD. For more information and to map out your route utilise this fact sheet.
